The EU Commission is planning to significantly tighten the criteria for so-called low-carbon H₂. In future, only H₂ that produces at least 70% fewer greenhouse gases than natural gas will be eligible for funding. In addition, methane emissions from natural gas production are to be set higher, which will make the production of blue H₂ in particular more expensive. The Munich-based H₂ technology company Siqens GmbH has also criticized the plan.

The company warns of a setback in the ramp-up of the H₂ economy if the planned regulations are implemented in this form. Siqens develops and sells methanol fuel cells and an electrochemical H₂ separation system (EHS), which can be used to produce H₂ decentrally and economically from existing gas streams.

Dr Thomas Klaue, CEO of Siqens GmbH, commented, “The regulations planned by the EU Commission to define low-carbon H₂ do not reflect reality in their current form. They are overambitious and jeopardize the development of a functioning H₂ market.”

The logic of industrial policy calls for solutions that are open to all technologies. Instead of excluding potentially climate-impacting transition technologies, clear guard rails and realistic paths to climate neutrality are needed. This also includes the use of H₂ from existing infrastructures – for example through electrochemical separation from biogas or reformates. Using renewable gases, these processes enable significant emission savings and already offer economically viable options for decentralized applications.

“Our technology at Siqens enables the decentralized production of high-purity H₂ at a price of less than two euros per kilogram – this is a realistic option for industry, municipalities and medium-sized companies.”

Europe must not slow itself down in global competition through excessive regulation. If investments are prevented and value chains are blocked, this not only weakens climate protection, but also Europe’s industrial base.

“The EU’s goal is the right one – but the way to achieve it must remain feasible. We need more pragmatism, more economic common sense and the courage to consistently utilize existing potential.”